What causes Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is a common acute systemic vasculitis in children. Possible causes include abnormal immune responses, infections, genetic factors, abnormal release of inflammatory mediators, and environmental factors. 1. **Abnormal immune responses**: The disease is thought to be an abnormal immune response to certain triggering factors, leading to systemic inflammation. Abnormal activation of the immune system may trigger various symptoms of Kawasaki disease, including high fever, rash, and conjunctivitis. 2. **Infections**: Although no specific pathogen has been identified, viral or bacterial infections are believed to potentially trigger abnormal immune responses. Such infections may represent an initial stage of Kawasaki disease, setting the stage for subsequent symptom development. 3. **Genetic factors**: Kawasaki disease has been observed to cluster in certain families. Certain genes may increase an individual's susceptibility to Kawasaki disease. 4. **Abnormal release of inflammatory mediators**: Inflammatory mediators have been found to be elevated in patients with Kawasaki disease. Excessive release of these mediators may lead to systemic inflammation and vascular damage, resulting in symptoms of Kawasaki disease. 5. **Environmental factors**: Certain environmental exposures, such as seasonal changes and air pollution, are believed to be potentially associated with the occurrence of Kawasaki disease.